The Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC) is one of seven National Primate Research Centers supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and has both external and internal oversight to ensure the highest quality and ethical care for animals and cutting-edge scientific research critical to human health.  The center, located on Oregon Health & Science University’s West Campus, is subject to continuous oversight from federal agencies that regulate how and where animal research can be performed. ONPRC maintains voluntary accreditation with the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALAC), International, an external organization that assesses the quality of programs for animal care and use and is proud to have maintained accreditation since 1974.

"OHSU's primate center has an outstanding record of animal care," says Peter Barr-Gillespie, Ph.D., executive vice president and chief research officer at OHSU. "Twice a year, the federal government conducts unannounced inspections. These inspections repeatedly demonstrate the hard work and dedication of our animal care staff. Our employees truly care about these animals, and the records demonstrate this year after year."

Research at the center is thoroughly reviewed by independent scientific experts not affiliated with the primate center to determine when an animal model is required to meet the study's objectives.  Once a year, an External Scientific Advisory Board visits the center and reviews the research in detail, providing oral and written critiques for each scientist.  The ONPRC, in collaboration with its host institution, Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), maintains internal committees that must approve studies before they commence.  These committees ensure research is consistent with all regulations that apply to the use of animals in research and testing, that occupational health and safety requirements are met, and that fair access to resources, including animal resources is maintained.